Real-time payments are redefining how nations connect people, money, and technology. They mark a shift from traditional financial systems to digital frameworks that promote access, transparency, and speed. Emerging economies like India and Brazil show that when payment systems are treated as public infrastructure, innovation and inclusion can grow together. Their success lies in clear regulation, strong central bank leadership, and open-access models that make digital finance simple and universal.

Developed markets, in contrast, face hurdles from legacy systems and fragmented policies. Despite strong private innovation, the absence of unified strategies has slowed progress. This reveals a key lesson—modernization in finance depends as much on coordination and governance as on technology itself.

Globally, the future of payments is moving toward one standard: open, interoperable, and inclusive networks that connect economies in real time. Nations that build systems around these principles will not only modernize payments but also drive broader financial empowerment and economic resilience.

Global Trends and Policy Insights

• Real-Time Payments (RTP) as a Global Trend: RTP and account-to-account (A2A) systems are redefining financial infrastructure worldwide, enabling instant, secure, and transparent fund transfers.

• Emerging Economies Lead Through Policy and Inclusion: India’s UPI and Brazil’s Pix exemplify how government-backed, zero-fee digital infrastructure can achieve mass adoption, financial inclusion, and socio-economic impact.

• Developed Markets Face Structural Barriers: Despite advanced technology, countries like the U.S. and U.K. encounter slower RTP adoption due to legacy systems, fragmented governance, and market-driven incentives.

• Centralized Governance Accelerates Adoption: Public-sector-led initiatives with mandatory participation, mobile-first infrastructure, and interoperable APIs facilitate rapid innovation and high user engagement in emerging markets.

• Private-Sector Innovation Complements Public Infrastructure: Fintechs and technology providers such as Plaid, TrueLayer, and Stripe accelerate RTP adoption by integrating A2A capabilities, supporting both consumer and business ecosystems.

• Population Dynamics and Network Effects Matter: Large populations in emerging economies create network effects, supporting billions of monthly transactions and enabling digital credit scoring, lending, and broader financial services.

• Cost and Accessibility as Key Drivers: Low or zero transaction fees significantly boost adoption in emerging markets, while moderate fees in developed economies create adoption barriers despite higher income levels.

• Future of RTP Includes Cross-Border Interoperability: Projects connecting UPI, Pix, and EU Instant Payments are setting the stage for regional and global RTP corridors, programmable payments, and automated settlement systems.

• Policy Implications: Sustainable RTP systems rely on treating financial infrastructure as a public digital good rather than a purely commercial tool, balancing innovation, inclusion, and regulatory oversight.

• Emerging Economies as a Model: Developed markets can learn from emerging economies by prioritizing centralized coordination, interoperable systems, and cost-efficient solutions to achieve both financial modernization and social inclusion.

1. Introduction

The transition from traditional financial networks to open, interoperable digital ecosystems is defining the new era of global finance. Real-time payment systems (RTP) are central to this evolution, enabling instant fund transfers, lower costs, and transparent settlements [1].

While developed markets pioneered open banking and fintech ecosystems, emerging economies have overtaken them in real-time transaction volume, user reach, and policy coordination. Systems like India’s UPI and Brazil’s Pix exemplify inclusive innovation, while the UK’s FPS and US FedNow illustrate how institutional fragmentation can slow digital progress [2].

2. Framework of Real-Time Payments and A2A Systems

Real-time payments allow direct, instant, and irrevocable fund transfers between bank accounts. These systems are supported by Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), ISO 20022 messaging standards, and strong data security protocols [3].

Key Features:

• Speed: Settlement within seconds

• Cost Efficiency: Minimal or no transaction fees

• Transparency: Real-time visibility and traceability

• Inclusion: Extends services to previously underserved populations

• Mobile-First Infrastructure: Enables mass adoption and supports digital IDs

3. Comparative Country Analysis

4. Industry Players Driving RTP Innovation

Real-time payments are not only a result of regulatory initiatives but also of private-sector innovation. Across both emerging and developed economies, technology firms, payment networks, and financial institutions are accelerating RTP and A2A integration.

5. Emerging Economies: Innovation Through Inclusion

India – UPI

UPI records over 11 billion monthly transactions and continues to expand cross-border with Singapore’s PayNow [6]. Its zero-fee model, government backing, and open-access APIs have turned it into a public good.

Brazil – Pix

Pix cover 75% of Brazil’s adult population, supporting everything from welfare disbursements to tax payments [7]. With central bank enforcement and free transfers, Pix integrates seamlessly into daily commerce and government operations.

These cases show that innovation can emerge from necessity—public infrastructure and policy alignment can outperform private innovation in achieving inclusion and scale.

Using mobile technology infrastructure, open standards, and astute regulations, these case studies from the emerging economies show how they have leapfrogged ahead of the developed economies in the areas of RTP and A2A finance [10].

6. Developed Economies: Complexity & Fragmentation

United Kingdom – FPS

Despite its early start in 2008, the Faster Payments Service (FPS) faces challenges modernizing its infrastructure. The New Payments Architecture (NPA) aims to improve performance but remains delayed [3].

United States – FedNow

The FedNow system launched in 2023 and coexists with private networks like RTP and Zelle. By 2024, participation reached only 15% of U.S. financial institutions [4].

Unlike emerging economies that mandate adoption, developed economies rely on market incentives, creating inefficiencies, higher costs, and slower inclusion.

7. Comparative Policy and Implementation Challenges

8. Population and Adoption Dynamics

Emerging markets benefit from population-driven network effects and state-backed interoperability.

• India (1.43 B) and Brazil (216 M) reach billions of transactions monthly under centralized frameworks.

• Developed economies—despite higher incomes - struggling with adoption barriers tied to legacy costs and fragmented incentives [8].

Moreover, UPI and Pix provide behavioral data for credit scoring and digital lending—expanding access to finance beyond traditional banking. Developed economies remain limited to payment innovation without equivalent social or economic spillovers.

9. Future Outlook (2025–2027)

The global trend points to cross-border RTP interoperability, with projects like UPI–PayNow and Pix–LATAM corridors already in motion [1].

• 2025: EU completes Instant Payments integration.

• 2026: Regional corridors emerge across Asia and Latin America.

• 2027+: Programmable payments integrate with blockchain and smart contracts for automated settlement.

10. Conclusion

Real-time payments are the new foundation of digital financial infrastructure, bridging the gap between economic growth and social inclusion. Emerging economies have proven that public-led systems can drive private innovation, not stifle it.
India’s UPI and Brazil’s Pix demonstrate that transparent governance, zero-cost design, and interoperable APIs can deliver massive adoption—even among low-income and unbanked populations [6],[7].

In contrast, developed markets face systemic inefficiencies due to fragmented governance, reliance on private networks, and profit-oriented cost structures. Their slower adoption reflects not a lack of technology, but a lack of unified policy and shared vision.

For policymakers, the key lesson is that infrastructure-led inclusion—supported by central banks, digital ID systems, and open access APIs—can generate greater long-term economic value than fragmented market competition.

Looking ahead, the integration of real-time payments, open finance, and programmable money could enable full cross-border interoperability. As regions connect UPI, Pix, and EU Instant Payments into unified corridors, the financial system will move closer to global real-time liquidity, reshaping trade, remittances, and consumer finance at scale.

In short, emerging markets have set the pace, and developed markets must now learn from them—by treating real-time finance not as a profit tool but as a public digital asset essential to the next decade of economic resilience.

References

[1] Bank for International Settlements (BIS). (2024). Interlinking Fast Payment Systems: Building Blocks for Cross-Border Connectivity. https://www.bis.org/cpmi/publ/brief7.pdf
[2] International Monetary Fund (IMF). (2023). Fintech and Cross-Border Payments: Towards Global Interoperability. https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/fintech-note/Issues/2023/01/Fintech-and-Cross-Border-Payments-Towards-Global-Interoperability
[3] European Central Bank (ECB). (2023). Instant Payments in Europe: A Blueprint for Pan-European Reach. https://www.ecb.europa.eu/pub/pdf/other/ecbinstantpaymentsblueprint2023.en.pdf
[4] McKinsey & Company. (2024). Global Payments Report 2024: Real-Time Growth and the Next Wave of A2A Innovation. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/financial-services/our-insights/global-payments-report-2024
[5] World Bank. (2022). Real-Time Retail Payments Systems: Enabling Financial Inclusion Through Instant Transfers. https://documents.worldbank.org/en/publication/documents-reports/documentdetail/090224b08408f9ad/real-time-retail-payments-systems-enabling-financial-inclusion-through-instant-transfers
[6] EY & Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). (2024). India’s UPI: Behavioral Shift in Rural Finance. https://www.ey.com/en_in/newsroom/2024/12/upi-most-preferred-payment-mode-for-38-percent-indians-in-rural-and-semi-urban-areas
[7] European Payments Council (EPC). (2024). Pix: Brazil’s Leading Instant Payment Scheme. https://www.europeanpaymentscouncil.eu/news-insights/insight/pix-latest-updates-brazils-leading-instant-payment-scheme
[8] Atlantic Council. (2024). Fast Payments in Action: Lessons from Brazil and India. https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/econographics/fast-payments-in-action-emerging-lessons-from-brazil-and-india
[9] Harvard Business School. (2024). FinTech Lending and Cashless Payments. https://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Pages/item.aspx?num=65409
[10] Keun Lee, Economics of Technological Leapfrogging In: The Challenges of Technology and Economic Catch-up in Emerging Economies. Edited by: Jeong-Dong Lee, Keun Lee, Dirk Meissner, Slavo Radosevic, and Nicholas S. Vonortas, Oxford University Press (2021). https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780192896049.003.0005

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Open banking represents a significant advancement in financial technology, allowing third-party developers—such as fintech companies and app creators—to securely access consumer banking data, transaction histories, and other financial information via Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). This innovative approach transforms the financial landscape by enabling a seamless and secure exchange of data among various stakeholders, including traditional banks, fintech firms, and authorized third parties.

The primary objectives of open banking include fostering innovation within the financial services sector, improving customer experience by offering personalized and tailored financial solutions, and enhancing financial inclusion by providing underserved populations with better access to financial products and services. By leveraging open banking, businesses can create new applications and services that cater to the diverse needs of consumers, ultimately contributing to a more competitive and efficient financial ecosystem.

Introduction

The concept of open banking is fundamentally built upon three key pillars: transparency, interoperability, and security as shown in Figure 1. It fosters an environment where banks and financial institutions work closely with third-party providers (TPPs) to design and implement customized financial products and services that cater to diverse consumer needs. These offerings can include a wide array of tools, such as budget management applications that help users track and optimize their spending, as well as streamlined lending processes that simplify access to credit for consumers and businesses alike.

To ensure these collaborations are safe and beneficial to consumers, open banking operates under the oversight of various regulatory frameworks established by government bodies. For instance, the European Union has introduced the Payment Services Directive 2 (PSD2), which mandates that banks must provide secure access to their customer data to authorized TPPs, given the customer’s consent. Similarly, the UK has implemented its Open Banking Standard, which aims to enhance competition and innovation in the financial sector by allowing consumers greater control over their banking data and the services they choose to use. These regulations not only promote a more competitive marketplace but also prioritize consumer protection, ensuring that any sharing of financial information is done securely and transparently1.

Next, we present the key features of open banking and information about some of the leading companies in this space. We then make the case as to why financial institutions should adopt open banking.

Key Features of Open Banking

• Data Sharing: Customers consent to share their financial data with Third Party Providers (TPPs).

• API Integration: APIs serve as the technical foundation for secure data exchange.

• Customer-Centric Services: Innovations encompass personalized financial advice, convenient payment solutions, and enhanced access to credit.

• Regulation-Driven Security: Open banking frameworks emphasize strong security measures, ensuring the protection of customer data2.

Companies Leading in Open Banking

A wide array of companies, from traditional banks with long histories to dynamic fintech startups pushing the boundaries of financial technology, are pushing towards the concept of open banking. This transformative approach to banking has attracted a diverse group of key players, each making significant strides in their journeys as shown in Figure 2.

Below, we explore some of these influential entities and highlight their advancements within the open banking landscape.

Plaid

• API Specialization: Plaid specializes in providing application programming interfaces (APIs) that facilitate smooth and efficient connectivity to a wide range of financial data. These APIs enable developers to integrate sophisticated financial services into their applications, enhancing user experience and functionality.

• Progress: Plaid has formed partnerships with thousands of financial institutions across the globe, which has allowed it to become a key player in the financial technology landscape. Its APIs support various applications and platforms, including personal budgeting tools, investment management software, and other financial services, making them indispensable for users seeking to manage their finances effectively.

• Milestones: A notable achievement for the company was the attempted acquisition by Visa for an impressive $5.3 billion. This significant offer not only reflects the company's pivotal role in the financial technology sector but also highlights its potential for continued growth and innovation within the industry3.

Yodlee

• Data Aggregation Leader: Yodlee specializes in offering comprehensive financial data aggregation and insightful analysis services to clients across different sectors.

• Progress: Yodlee plays a significant role in the implementation and integration of open banking initiatives across several key regions, including North America and Europe. This involves collaborating with financial institutions to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, enhancing customer access to banking services, and facilitating smoother financial transactions through innovative technology solutions4.

TrueLayer

• Secure API Services: providing robust secure API services that facilitate safe and reliable access to user accounts and payment systems. By implementing advanced security measures, TrueLayer ensures that their users can manage their financial transactions with confidence and peace of mind.

• Progress: TrueLayer is actively engaged in the development of real-time payment solutions and comprehensive financial dashboards, focusing particularly strong in the European market, where they aim to enhance the efficiency and transparency of financial transactions, making it easier for users to monitor and manage their finances in real-time5.

Tink

• European Market Leader: This company provides robust API solutions to over 3,400 banks throughout Europe, facilitating seamless integration and communication between financial institutions and their technology partners.

• Progress: The organization is dedicated to enhancing the banking experience by focusing on personalized services and improving the efficiency of API connectivity. This commitment to innovation allows banks to deliver tailored financial solutions to their customers, ensuring a more engaging and user-friendly experience6.

Open Banking Limited (OBL)

• Standards Implementation: Focuses on creating and implementing secure API specifications for the financial sector within the UK. This process involves thorough research and adherence to regulatory requirements to ensure that APIs meet the highest security standards.

• Progress: Works diligently to establish comprehensive frameworks that facilitate effective collaboration between banks and Third-Party Providers (TPPs). By fostering this collaboration, customer trust is significantly enhanced, as consumers can be assured that their data is being handled securely and transparently, leading to more seamless and innovative financial services7.

Revolut and Monzo (Neobanks)

• Neobanks are revolutionizing the financial landscape by utilizing open banking to significantly enhance user experiences. This approach allows for greater integration and collaboration with third-party financial services, leading to innovative solutions tailored to individual needs.

• Progress: Neobanks are focused on developing and delivering advanced features that provide added value to their customers. This includes user-friendly consolidated dashboards that offer a comprehensive view of all financial accounts in one place, sophisticated budget management tools that help users track and control their spending effectively, and seamless cross-border payment solutions that facilitate easy and cost-effective international transactions. By prioritizing these features, neobanks are creating a more efficient and user-centric banking environment8.

Why Companies Should Shift to Open Banking

1. Enhanced Customer Experience

   Open banking transforms the way companies interact with their customers by enabling them to offer tailored financial services that reflect individual needs and preferences. By leveraging data analytics to examine a customer’s transaction history and spending behavior, businesses can provide personalized recommendations that enhance customer satisfaction. For instance, financial institutions can create custom budgeting tools or suggest relevant financial products that align with a customer’s lifestyle and goals. This level of personalization not only fosters greater customer loyalty but also creates more engaging marketing campaigns targeted specifically at different customer segments.

2. Fostering Innovation

   Seamless API collaboration allows businesses to create unique financial solutions, such as automated savings and credit models.

3. Increased Financial Inclusion

   The open banking model, driven by the use of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), promotes collaboration between startups and established financial institutions, paving the way for groundbreaking financial solutions. This environment of innovation has led to the development of a variety of useful tools, such as automated savings platforms that help users save money effortlessly by analyzing spending patterns, and investment advisory applications that provide tailored investment strategies based on an individual’s financial situation. Additionally, alternative credit scoring models are emerging, which rely on a broader set of data points to assess creditworthiness, ultimately leading to more fair lending practices9.
   Open banking plays a crucial role in increasing financial inclusion for underserved populations who may be overlooked by traditional banking systems. By using alternative credit scoring mechanisms that take into account non-traditional financial behaviors—such as regular rental payments, utility bill payments, and other consistent financial activities—financial institutions can extend loan access to individuals lacking conventional credit histories. This means that more people can qualify for essential financial services, improving their overall economic stability and providing opportunities for personal and professional growth.

4. Cost Efficiency

   The automation of various financial processes through open banking leads to significant cost savings for both financial institutions and their customers. By minimizing the need for manual intervention in critical operations like loan underwriting, account opening, and customer onboarding, financial institutions can streamline their workflows, resulting in faster service delivery and reduced operational costs. These savings can then be passed on to customers in various forms, such as lower fees and competitive interest rates, thus enhancing overall customer satisfaction10.

5. Competitive Edge

   In the fast-paced financial landscape, adopting open banking practices allows businesses to stay ahead of their competitors. By embracing innovative technologies and new business models, companies can offer unique and cutting-edge products and services that resonate with consumers. For instance, the ability to integrate financial services into daily life through mobile apps or platforms that aggregate various financial accounts can provide a seamless customer experience. This differentiation is vital in attracting tech-savvy customers who seek convenience and modern solutions that traditional banks may struggle to provide.

6. Regulatory Compliance

   Complying with open banking regulations, such as the Revised Payment Services Directive (PSD2), builds trust and transparency between financial institutions and their customers. These regulations are designed to protect consumer interests by ensuring that financial data is shared securely and used responsibly. Businesses that align themselves with these compliance standards not only enhance their credibility in the eyes of consumers but also position themselves as leaders in ethical financial practices. Demonstrating adherence to regulatory frameworks can foster long-lasting relationships with customers who value transparency and accountability.

7. New Revenue Streams

   Open banking presents an opportunity for companies to explore new revenue streams by monetizing data, provided they obtain customer consent. By analyzing valuable insights derived from consumer behavior and preferences, businesses can expand their offerings into areas such as premium APIs or subscription-based financial tools. For example, financial institutions can create exclusive products tailored to niche markets or launch value-added services that enhance customer engagement and loyalty. Additionally, collaborating with third-party developers to create new applications can result in diversified income sources, further enhancing the financial institution’s growth potential11.

Conclusion

Open banking is significantly transforming the financial industry by promoting the sharing of financial data among authorized third parties, which fosters innovation and enhances financial inclusion for consumers and businesses alike. This shift is driven by the rise of industry leaders such as Plaid, TrueLayer, and Yodlee, who are effectively demonstrating the potential of application programming interfaces (APIs) to create seamless and efficient financial services.

By adopting open banking practices early, companies can gain a substantial competitive advantage. They can offer tailored financial products and services, improve customer experiences, and access new revenue streams. For example, open banking allows for personalized financial advice, easier loan applications, and streamlined payment processes, ultimately benefiting consumers in a connected financial ecosystem.

However, as open banking continues to evolve, it is crucial for companies to prioritize robust security protocols and comply with regulatory requirements. Ensuring the protection of customer data from breaches and misuse is essential not only for maintaining consumer trust but also for meeting legal obligations.

As the global adoption of open banking accelerates, its transformative power will undoubtedly reshape the landscape of financial services, paving the way for greater innovation, inclusivity, and efficiency in how individuals and businesses manage their finances. The future of finance is being redefined, and those who embrace this change will be well-positioned for success.